Research & outreach

Areas of research

The College of Agriculture, Biotechnology & Natural Resources is fully committed to the aspiration of the University to be a premier research institution. Research teams of students, postdoctoral associates and faculty aim to address scientific challenges, stimulate innovation and enhance the transfer of knowledge to industry.

A woman in a green jacket gently holds a white sheep in a farm area with fences and trees behind her.

Livestock & domestic animals

Researching topics from basic molecular biology aspects of genetics, genomics and physiology to applied aspects of breeding and genetics, nutrition, meat science and processing, growth, heat and cold stress, production and management strategies.

biotech students

Biotech-based science

Applying science toward the improvement of society by capitalizing on genetic engineering techniques used to design new proteins, improve stress tolerance in plants and investigate disease mechanisms. 

meat industry

Economic development

Creating tools and performing analyses to address clearly defined development problems in Nevada and the West.

mercury sampling

Environmental science

Studying fundamental environmental processes, stressors on environmental systems and their effects on human health.

alfalfa trials

Food & forage crops

Innovating the way food is grown, processed and distributed to meet and sustain the growing global demand for food.

forestry

Forest & woodlands

Investigating ecology, silvicultureclimate change, stand dynamics, drought, wildfire history, plant invasions, plant-herbivore interactions and fuels management.

dietetic clinic

Human health & wellbeing

Addressing diet and nutrition, food insecurity, cancer prevention, obesity, cardiovascular health, disease transmission and early childhood development.

mercury sampling

Natural resources

Providing solutions for complex local, regional, national and global issues related to the management of natural resources, including environmental stressors, land use, remote sensing, wildlife fuels, water use, groundwater, snowpack and wildlife management.

range fire

Rangeland management

Providing information on issues related to water, wildlife habitat, livestock forage, recreation, open space, conservation of natural areas and the stewardship of rangeland resources in Nevada.

carson river

Water resources & quality

Investigating water issues including in agriculture, climate and sustainability, and seeking new approaches to address current and emerging challenges to provide smarter water management to Nevada's stakeholders.

elko capture

Wildlife management & ecology

Focusing on the management of game animals and carnivores, demographics, habitat requirements, community and landscape ecology to bridge the gap between basic and applied wildlife science.

Areas of outreach

Extension is the outreach unit of the College/University that brings you information to solve problems and deal with critical issues. We have offices statewide to serve you, whether you live on a ranch near the remote Rubies or in an urban setting in Las Vegas. Our more than 200 personnel - with the help of volunteers - deliver non-degree, educational programs on topics important to you. We couldn't do it without the help of our federal and county partners, and the other groups, agencies, businesses and individuals with whom we collaborate.

4-H Youth Development
building rockets
Business Management & Economic Development
teacher in classroom
Children, Youth & Families
teacher in classroom
Community Development & Vitality
group surveying property
Environment & Nature
drought on rangelands
Farming & Ranching
cows eating hay
Food Safety & Quality
canning class
Gardens, Trees & Landscapes
group surveying property
Pests & Plant Diseases
ladybugs eating aphids